Snooping on phone calls or invading someone’s privacy by reading their private messages could have serious consequences in Bahrain. The Shura Council is considering two new bills aimed at cracking down on breaches of personal privacy. The first bill proposes stricter punishments for those who provoke indecent behavior in public or share someone’s private or family secrets without permission, even if they are true. The second bill targets the misuse of social media and communication methods, suggesting harsher penalties for those who take, share, or broadcast photos without consent, eavesdrop on phone calls, or open letters not meant for them. If these actions result in harm to someone, the punishment could be even more severe.
These new bills come as the current laws in Bahrain are considered outdated and inadequate in addressing the increasing problem of privacy violations. As technology advances and such cases become more common, the existing penalties no longer seem sufficient. The proposed changes aim to update the laws to ensure that privacy is respected in a world where communication methods are constantly evolving.
The Foreign Affairs, Defence, and National Security Committee, led by Dr. Ali bin Mohammed Al Rumaihi, is spearheading the consideration of these two bills. The Foreign Affairs, Defence, and National Security Committee is pushing for amendments to the Penal Code, originally established in 1976 under Decree Law No 15. The proposed changes seek to impose stricter consequences for individuals who cross the line when it comes to personal privacy. By addressing the issue of privacy breaches and imposing tougher penalties, these bills aim to deter individuals from engaging in such actions in the future.
The first bill focuses on provoking indecent behavior in public through words, gestures, or actions, suggesting that stricter penalties should be enforced for such behavior. It also seeks to amend Article 370 to clarify that sharing someone’s private or family secrets publicly, even if they are true, could result in harsher punishment if it causes harm. The second bill, on the other hand, targets the misuse of social media and other communication methods, proposing tougher penalties for various privacy violations. It aims to hold individuals accountable for their actions and ensure that privacy rights are protected in a digital age where information can easily be shared without consent.
As privacy breaches become more prevalent in Bahrain, there is a growing need to update the existing laws to address these issues effectively. The proposed bills aim to bring the legal framework up to date and ensure that individuals’ privacy is safeguarded. By cracking down on those who engage in activities that violate personal privacy, the legislation seeks to promote respect for privacy rights and deter individuals from engaging in such behaviors in the future. With the potential for stricter consequences for privacy violations, individuals will be more cautious in their actions, ultimately leading to a safer and more respectful society.
